Preparing for the birth of a baby is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. Especially when you think about the actual labour. When those first contractions start, you want to feel ready for the new arrival.
Here are the top 10 labour preparation essentials to help you feel more confident and prepared for your baby's arrival when the time comes:
1 - Birth Plan
Creating a birth plan is an essential step in preparing for your baby's arrival. A birth plan outlines your preferences for labour and delivery, including pain management options, delivery positions, and who will be present in the room. Remember to discuss your birth plan with your birth partner before the birth so they understand your wishes, and are confident to discuss these with the midwife on your behalf if necessary.
2 - Birthing Ball
A birthing ball is a large exercise ball that can be used during labour to help you stay comfortable and ease the pain of contractions. Sitting on a birthing ball can also help encourage the baby to move into the optimal position for delivery.
You’ll be pleased to hear that it is possible to find eco-friendly birth balls too. It’s important to consider the material that the birth ball is made from. For example is it PVC-Free? Or made from hypoallergenic PVC? Is it recyclable? Look out not just for eco credentials but also how sustainably it is made and if it has been ethically produced. We're currently reviewing some birth balls so will update soon with a recommendation!
3 - Hand Fan
As the intensity of labour increases, women often experience heightened body temperature. A hand fan can provide instant relief by creating a gentle breeze, helping to cool the body and alleviate discomfort. Beyond its physical benefits, the rhythmic motion of fanning can be a soothing presence, offering a calming distraction during contractions.
4 - Hot Water Bottle
The application of heat can help ease muscle tension and provide relief from the discomfort associated with contractions. Placing a hot water bottle on the lower back or abdomen can be particularly soothing, promoting relaxation and reducing the perception of pain. The warmth also enhances blood circulation, potentially aiding in the relaxation of uterine muscles. Additionally, the psychological comfort provided by the warmth of the hot water bottle can contribute to a sense of calmness during the intense moments of labour.
5 - Preparing for birth with perineal massage
A perineal massage oil can be used in the weeks leading up to your birth to help support the skin’s natural ability to stretch during childbirth minimising the risk of tears and cuts, and improving recovery time. With increasing evidence to support the benefits of perineal massage when practiced regularly, it’s really a no-brainer.
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6 - Hypnobirthing
Hypnobirthing is a method of childbirth that uses self-hypnosis, relaxation, and breathing techniques to help the mother manage pain and anxiety during labour and delivery. It aims to create a calm and positive birth experience, in which the mother is empowered to work with her body's natural birthing instincts. The technique typically involves attending classes, listening to relaxation and visualization recordings, and practicing techniques with a partner or birth companion. Hypnobirthing has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and anxiety, shortening labour times, and improving maternal and infant outcomes.
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7 - Tens Machine
A TENS machine is a small device that can be used during labour to help alleviate pain. It works by sending electrical impulses to the nerves, which can help block pain signals from reaching the brain. You can use right from the early stages of labour up to the end and seriously some women swear by these!
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8 - Massage Oils
Gentle and targeted massage techniques can alleviate the discomfort associated with contractions, easing muscle tension and promoting a sense of relaxation. The release of endorphins during a massage contributes to a natural pain-relieving effect.
9 - Labour and Delivery Clothes
It’s one of the things often overlooked by mamas but what clothes you give birth in is SO important. Labour and delivery clothes of your choosing can be more comfortable than the hospital-provided gown and can make the birth experience feel more personal. We’d recommend looking for light materials, which hang off you, ideally a dress or long top so that the midwife can gain easy access and buttons at the front for easy skin to skin contact when baby is born. We’d also recommend black so there’s no interesting stains on those first pics with new baby!
10 - Water Bottle
Staying hydrated during labour is important, after all your body is going to be using a lot of energy so having a water bottle on hand can help. We’d recommend looking for a water bottle with a straw, which can make it easier to drink water during labour.
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These are just a few examples of products that can help prepare for labour. Ultimately, every woman's labour experience is unique, and it's important to find the products that work best for you and your individual needs.
